We know Lexington is special, but now the whole world is about to know. TIME magazine released its list of "The World's Greatest Places of 2024" and one local spot was featured — The Manchester.

We have covered the building of the boutique hotel from its announcement in 2021 to its current happenings + weekly activities. Now, we want to take a deep dive into what makes this show-stopping Distillery District spot so special.

How it was selected

The Manchester is one of 100 international locations selected for the list, which includes places like: a chocolate shop in India, a diving experience in New Zealand, and the Four Seasons Koh Samui in Thailand. The list is broken down into two sections — places to stay + places to visit.

The list was created through an application process, as well as nominations from its international network of contributors + correspondents.

The homage to equine culture can be seen throughout the entire hotel, continuing at Lost Palm with its 1960s South Florida vibes. | Photo by LEXtoday

Why we love it

If the delectable dishes + creative cocktails at on-site eateries Granddam and Lost Palm aren't enough to draw you in, the ambiance alone should be.

“When you walk into the lobby, you feel the design is authentic — that someone with a real connection to this place is behind it,” said hotelier Nik Feldman in an interview with Hospitality Design.

Feldman, business partner Hank Morris, and New York-based designerJenny Bukovec are the minds behind the hotel, who describe the exterior as "Rickhouse Revival," referring to commonly seen bourbon storage structures.

Inside the lobby bar and lounge, you're greeted with earth tones reminiscent of our rich landscape + rolling hills. The decor features a blend of local vintage furnishings + custom pieces from Morocco. The arches featured downstairs are continued throughout the interior + exterior of the rooftop bar, Lost Palm

“We wanted the charm that comes from things that are timeworn and handmade,” Bukovec said in an interview with Hospitality Design. “Nothing is too precious; it’s all meant to be comfortable and inviting.”